The Heiress

A superb cinematic version of the Henry James' novel "Washington Square." After discovering that his bride-to-be is going to be disinherited, a handsome young fortune hunter jilts her on the night of their elopement. Years later, when the woman's fortune is secured, the man returns and again asks for her hand, but his erstwhile sweetheart has other plans for him. Copeland's score is magnificent. Academy Award Nominations: 8, including Best Picture; Best Director.